POTCHEFSTROOM — A major water pipeline burst has triggered potential widespread supply interruptions across several key areas in Potchefstroom, including the Central Business District (CBD) and the Military Base.
The disruption follows severe damage caused to a water supply pipeline near the intersection of Louis Le Grange and Jeppe Streets on Tuesday, 18 August 2026.
JB Marks Local Municipality spokesperson, Jeanette Tshite, confirmed that the incident occurred during construction work on the Promosa-Poortjie Dam Bulk Sewer Line project.
Emergency repair operations are currently underway. The contractor’s team, supported by municipal technical personnel, is on-site to assess and fix the structural damage.
However, repair teams are facing significant on-site complications. Due to the high-pressure water flow flooding the excavation zone, workers have been unable to safely access the ruptured section of the pipe.
The immediate priority for the technical team is to isolate the damaged section. This requires redirecting or stopping the main water flow and pumping the accumulated water out of the excavation trench.
Once the site is sufficiently de-watered, a detailed assessment will determine the exact timeline for repairs.
Residents and businesses in the following affected areas are urged to store water and prepare for a potentially prolonged supply interruption Central Business District (CBD), The Bult, Miederpark, Military Base, Potchindustria.
The JB Marks Local Municipality has apologized sincerely for the inconvenience caused and thanked the community for their patience during these emergency repairs.
